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Genomics

What is genomics?

Unlike genetics, which primarily focuses on our genes (just 2% of our DNA), genomics is the study of genome: the genes and all the DNA in between. This genomic information can help to diagnose a condition, determine the chance of developing a condition in later life, or even inform the correct type of treatment.

There is still a lot we don’t know about the genome. However, new technology and the are bringing more insights and understanding to improve patient outcomes.
By becoming a tool in routine health care, genomics is likely to be encountered by a variety of health care professionals outside of specialist services. As a result, all  nurses will need to have a working understanding of what this means for their practice and implications for patients. How much knowledge is needed will depend on roles, clinical duties and the area of specialism.

Genomics Education Programme

NHS England’s was founded to deliver the learning and development necessary to enable current and future NHS workforce to harness the power of genomic medicine for patient benefit. Educating a diverse, 1.5 million-strong workforce requires a flexible, dynamic approach, drawing on best practice across health care, education and digital technology. The GEP has developed a range of educational resources for nurses from films, online courses, to more formal academic and training programs including the Master’s in Genomic Medicine, post graduate qualifications and CPD modules.

Further resources

RCN. Genomics subject guide.

Department of Health and Social Care (2020). . Strategy setting out the vision to extend the UK’s leadership in genomic healthcare and research.

Department of Health and Social Care, Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, and Office for Life Sciences (2021). .

Gemma Mitchell (2020). , Nursing Times, 4 August 2020.

Future Learn. . A free 3-week course that explores the application of this technology in healthcare and the benefit it beings to patients.

M. Kirk, et al. (2014). , J Adv Nurs, 2014 Feb;70(2):405-20.

NHS England. . Case studies to support the delivery of genomics education to pre-registration nurses.

NHS England. .

NHS England.

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NHS England (2020).  (PDF). Update for Chief Nurses and Heads of Midwifery.

NHS England (2020).  (PDF).

Page last updated - 31/07/2024